Still Frigid
I am beginning to fondly remember the early summer mornings at the lake where the temperatures push 80 degrees in 100 humidity. My favorite thing is sticking my overheated head under the cold water spigot and then resting in the shade before I put my sweaty body into my car.
This morning was the exact opposite of what I just described. The wind chill index was well below zero again. The lake is frozen solid like a giant ice cube. The morning sun provided only light, no warmth.
I ran with Maureen. She had already run about five miles when I hooked up with her. I got in one lap around the lake -- 7.4 miles -- at about 57 minutes or 7:45 miles. It wasn't pretty. I think we are going for a long run tomorrow, so I didn't want to go too far or push too hard.
I lifted with John during lunch. We did chest, shoulders, and triceps.
I had a great nap with David this afternoon while Amber and Benjamin went and bought some new shoes.
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Frigid
Frigid
Wow. It was cold today. Thank God for Under Armor. I was busy all day, but managed to run between 4:30 and 5:30 this afternoon. The Wind Chill Factor was about 20 below.
I did one lap around the lake. I started off at an average pace, but just wanted to finish. I covered the 7.42 miles in just under 49 minutes -- about 6:35 per mile. I was the only one on the trail the entire time.
I think it was Shakespeare who wrote, "Blow, blow thou winter wind. Thou aren't as harsh as one man's ingratitude." After today, it is evident the he lived in England and not Nebraska.
It actually wasn't too bad once I got going. I was glad I went and had a nice run!
Wow. It was cold today. Thank God for Under Armor. I was busy all day, but managed to run between 4:30 and 5:30 this afternoon. The Wind Chill Factor was about 20 below.
I did one lap around the lake. I started off at an average pace, but just wanted to finish. I covered the 7.42 miles in just under 49 minutes -- about 6:35 per mile. I was the only one on the trail the entire time.
I think it was Shakespeare who wrote, "Blow, blow thou winter wind. Thou aren't as harsh as one man's ingratitude." After today, it is evident the he lived in England and not Nebraska.
It actually wasn't too bad once I got going. I was glad I went and had a nice run!
Monday, January 29, 2007
Sabbath
Sabbath
Monday is my day off. It is my day to rest. Many people wouldn't consider running 14.8 miles rest, but it is restful for me.
I did the first 7.45 with Joanie, Pam, Kurt, and Maureen. We made it around the lake in about 62 minutes. They all started running before I got there, so the second lap I ran by myself. My legs were fresh because I didn't run the last two days. I was just under 56 minutes for the second lap.
I lifted shoulders, back, and abs with John. We also went on the stair treadmill for about five minutes at full speed as we are training for the Trek to the Top. That was tough after running 15 miles. As the Team Captain for Team Water's Edge, I have got to set an example if we are going to win.
Had a good afternoon and night. Lots of guests came over to visit David. I feel much better after a day of Sabbath.
Monday is my day off. It is my day to rest. Many people wouldn't consider running 14.8 miles rest, but it is restful for me.
I did the first 7.45 with Joanie, Pam, Kurt, and Maureen. We made it around the lake in about 62 minutes. They all started running before I got there, so the second lap I ran by myself. My legs were fresh because I didn't run the last two days. I was just under 56 minutes for the second lap.
I lifted shoulders, back, and abs with John. We also went on the stair treadmill for about five minutes at full speed as we are training for the Trek to the Top. That was tough after running 15 miles. As the Team Captain for Team Water's Edge, I have got to set an example if we are going to win.
Had a good afternoon and night. Lots of guests came over to visit David. I feel much better after a day of Sabbath.
Sunday, January 28, 2007
37 Things I Have Learned
37 Things I Have Learned
Another 14 hour work day today. Obviously no running.
I will be 37 on February 2nd. Happy Groundhog's Day! Here are my reflections about 37 things I have learned in 37 years. I shared this with the people of The Water’s Edge this morning.
37. I have learned that humor is not the opposite of seriousness; humor is the opposite of despair.
36. I have learned to seek God's purpose and plan for my life. Jeremiah 29:11 – For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.
35. I have learned that the marriage relationship is the most important human relationship that we have.
34. I have learned that sometimes it doesn't take a lot of training to do things. It just takes the will to want to do it. Sometimes it’s not ready, aim, fire. Sometimes it’s ready, fire, aim!
33. I have learned that money is not the key to contentment. Matthew 16:26 – And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul?
32. I have learned that forgiveness is the key to contentment. Forgiving and living is better than remembering and resenting.
31. I have learned to learn from my mistakes. Or at least I should have this one figured out by now.
30. I have learned that if life hands you lemons make lemonade.
29. I have learned that wherever I go, the worst drivers in the world follow me.
28. I have learned that knowing where you want to go is the most important step in getting there. The journey of the thousand miles begins with a single step.
27. I have learned to get your chips in the middle with the best hand.
26. I have learned that you’ll never be able to tell someone how much they mean to you once they’re gone. If you love somebody tell them today.
25. I have learned that big dreams lead to a big life. What are you dreaming about?
24. I have learned that life is most livable and most enjoyable in the company of others.
23. I have learned about the joy of Christ's love: From the outside looking in, it's hard to understand. From the inside looking out, it's hard to explain.
22. I have learned that the function of prayer is not necessarily to influence God, but rather to change the nature of the one who prays.
21. I have learned one of the most important things I can do is encourage others.
20. I have learned that time is God’s gift to us and what we do with time is our gift to God. Manage your time or your time will manage you.
19. I have learned (or at least I should have learned by now) that planning in advance is a good thing.
18. I have learned that I should love others unconditionally as my dog loves me.
17. I have learned that sometimes life is hard, but our response makes a difference. Pain in life is inevitable; suffering is optional.
16. I have learned that the end is not death; the end is life.
15. I have learned that laughter from a child is precious and priceless.
14. I have learned that laughter from an adult is almost as precious and almost as priceless.
13. I have learned that the best way to be happy is to make somebody else happy.
12. I have learned that to risk is to lose one's footing momentarily. Not to risk is to lose oneself. What are you risking?
11. I have learned not to forget to love myself.
10. I have learned that God makes saints out of sinners. God has always been in the business of changing lives, God is in the business of changing lives, and that God will always be in the business of changing lives.
9. I have learned that I am closest to God and my life makes that most sense when I read the Bible daily.
8. I have learned that we must find time to rest in God’s love and simply find time to be still in God’s presence. Matthew 11:28 – Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Psalm 46:10 – Be still and know that I am God.
7. I have learned to live life to the fullest because you never know when life is going to end.
6. I have learned that life is not a problem to be solved, but a reality to be experienced.
5. I have learned that what is, is and what isn't, isn't. Learn to deal with it. 2 Corinthians 12:9 – My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.
4. I have learned that there is a difference between loving and being in love. The former is a verb and a gift from God. The latter is an adjective that describes a temporary feeling.
3. I have learned that we look most like Jesus when we serve others.
2. I learned that when I was younger I thought I knew everything, but I didn't. The older I get, the less I know I know. I can’t wait what God is going to teach me today.
1. I have learned that God loves me.
Another 14 hour work day today. Obviously no running.
I will be 37 on February 2nd. Happy Groundhog's Day! Here are my reflections about 37 things I have learned in 37 years. I shared this with the people of The Water’s Edge this morning.
37. I have learned that humor is not the opposite of seriousness; humor is the opposite of despair.
36. I have learned to seek God's purpose and plan for my life. Jeremiah 29:11 – For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.
35. I have learned that the marriage relationship is the most important human relationship that we have.
34. I have learned that sometimes it doesn't take a lot of training to do things. It just takes the will to want to do it. Sometimes it’s not ready, aim, fire. Sometimes it’s ready, fire, aim!
33. I have learned that money is not the key to contentment. Matthew 16:26 – And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul?
32. I have learned that forgiveness is the key to contentment. Forgiving and living is better than remembering and resenting.
31. I have learned to learn from my mistakes. Or at least I should have this one figured out by now.
30. I have learned that if life hands you lemons make lemonade.
29. I have learned that wherever I go, the worst drivers in the world follow me.
28. I have learned that knowing where you want to go is the most important step in getting there. The journey of the thousand miles begins with a single step.
27. I have learned to get your chips in the middle with the best hand.
26. I have learned that you’ll never be able to tell someone how much they mean to you once they’re gone. If you love somebody tell them today.
25. I have learned that big dreams lead to a big life. What are you dreaming about?
24. I have learned that life is most livable and most enjoyable in the company of others.
23. I have learned about the joy of Christ's love: From the outside looking in, it's hard to understand. From the inside looking out, it's hard to explain.
22. I have learned that the function of prayer is not necessarily to influence God, but rather to change the nature of the one who prays.
21. I have learned one of the most important things I can do is encourage others.
20. I have learned that time is God’s gift to us and what we do with time is our gift to God. Manage your time or your time will manage you.
19. I have learned (or at least I should have learned by now) that planning in advance is a good thing.
18. I have learned that I should love others unconditionally as my dog loves me.
17. I have learned that sometimes life is hard, but our response makes a difference. Pain in life is inevitable; suffering is optional.
16. I have learned that the end is not death; the end is life.
15. I have learned that laughter from a child is precious and priceless.
14. I have learned that laughter from an adult is almost as precious and almost as priceless.
13. I have learned that the best way to be happy is to make somebody else happy.
12. I have learned that to risk is to lose one's footing momentarily. Not to risk is to lose oneself. What are you risking?
11. I have learned not to forget to love myself.
10. I have learned that God makes saints out of sinners. God has always been in the business of changing lives, God is in the business of changing lives, and that God will always be in the business of changing lives.
9. I have learned that I am closest to God and my life makes that most sense when I read the Bible daily.
8. I have learned that we must find time to rest in God’s love and simply find time to be still in God’s presence. Matthew 11:28 – Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Psalm 46:10 – Be still and know that I am God.
7. I have learned to live life to the fullest because you never know when life is going to end.
6. I have learned that life is not a problem to be solved, but a reality to be experienced.
5. I have learned that what is, is and what isn't, isn't. Learn to deal with it. 2 Corinthians 12:9 – My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.
4. I have learned that there is a difference between loving and being in love. The former is a verb and a gift from God. The latter is an adjective that describes a temporary feeling.
3. I have learned that we look most like Jesus when we serve others.
2. I learned that when I was younger I thought I knew everything, but I didn't. The older I get, the less I know I know. I can’t wait what God is going to teach me today.
1. I have learned that God loves me.
Saturday, January 27, 2007
Cute
Cute
I worked 14 hours today and was too busy to run. We got a really cute picture from Jenny Gegg, our photographer.
I worked 14 hours today and was too busy to run. We got a really cute picture from Jenny Gegg, our photographer.
Friday, January 26, 2007
Bio Freeze and Egg Yolks
Bio Freeze and Egg Yolks
I run with Christy, Onyx, Kurt, and Maureen this morning. Christy and Onyx had an encounter with some dog owners who didn't have their dogs on leashes. One of them didn't even have a leash -- she had a clicker which is like the worst invention since the Flowbee. Christy seemed to handle herself with grace.
Maureen was complaining about her knee being sore. I told her to mix a package of Biofreeze with three egg yolks and then microwave the mixture for 8 seconds and then put the mixture on the afflicted area. I think she believed me before she came to her senses. You know, I am a pastor.
Oh well, I ran six and half miles. I felt good considering I ran 20 miles yesterday.
I lifted chest, shoulders, and triceps with John during lunch.
Benjamin and I wrestled tonight, although I think it was closer to the Ultimate Fighting. At 5 years old, he is getting strong enough I can consider this cross-training. He made me submit 29 minutes and 11 seconds into the match with the underarm tickle maneuver. He and I will both need the Biofreeze and egg yolks tonight.
I run with Christy, Onyx, Kurt, and Maureen this morning. Christy and Onyx had an encounter with some dog owners who didn't have their dogs on leashes. One of them didn't even have a leash -- she had a clicker which is like the worst invention since the Flowbee. Christy seemed to handle herself with grace.
Maureen was complaining about her knee being sore. I told her to mix a package of Biofreeze with three egg yolks and then microwave the mixture for 8 seconds and then put the mixture on the afflicted area. I think she believed me before she came to her senses. You know, I am a pastor.
Oh well, I ran six and half miles. I felt good considering I ran 20 miles yesterday.
I lifted chest, shoulders, and triceps with John during lunch.
Benjamin and I wrestled tonight, although I think it was closer to the Ultimate Fighting. At 5 years old, he is getting strong enough I can consider this cross-training. He made me submit 29 minutes and 11 seconds into the match with the underarm tickle maneuver. He and I will both need the Biofreeze and egg yolks tonight.
Thursday, January 25, 2007
Long
Long
Today I ran 20 miles. I wanted to stop after 18, but Maureen is a bad influence and persuaded me to do 20. Even at the advanced age of 36--soon to be 37--peer pressure still exists. We had a great run, even the last two miles. We started out at 7:30 per mile and ended around 7:40 per mile. Beautiful day. About 20 degrees and no wind.
The long run is the most important part of marathon training. It simulates the race better than any other workout. What prepares one to run long is running long. And so it is with life. Classes, reading, observation are all good--but are no substitute for the real thing.
Today I ran 20 miles. I wanted to stop after 18, but Maureen is a bad influence and persuaded me to do 20. Even at the advanced age of 36--soon to be 37--peer pressure still exists. We had a great run, even the last two miles. We started out at 7:30 per mile and ended around 7:40 per mile. Beautiful day. About 20 degrees and no wind.
The long run is the most important part of marathon training. It simulates the race better than any other workout. What prepares one to run long is running long. And so it is with life. Classes, reading, observation are all good--but are no substitute for the real thing.
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Ordinary
Ordinary
It was an ordinary run. I ran with Maureen, Kurt, and Christy. I am trying to talk Christy into joining my team for the Trek to the Top -- a climb up 40 flights of stairs at the First National Building downtown. She has a few big races coming up, so wouldn't committ. Oh well...
I ran 6.75 miles and then had to cut out early. We were going around 7:30 per mile. I think we might be doing a long run tomorrow, so my legs will appreciate the rest.
I lifted with John during lunch. We worked our back and biceps.
Ordinary days are good. They have to be. If it weren't for ordinary days, there wouldn't be any extraordinary days. If that makes any sense.
It was an ordinary run. I ran with Maureen, Kurt, and Christy. I am trying to talk Christy into joining my team for the Trek to the Top -- a climb up 40 flights of stairs at the First National Building downtown. She has a few big races coming up, so wouldn't committ. Oh well...
I ran 6.75 miles and then had to cut out early. We were going around 7:30 per mile. I think we might be doing a long run tomorrow, so my legs will appreciate the rest.
I lifted with John during lunch. We worked our back and biceps.
Ordinary days are good. They have to be. If it weren't for ordinary days, there wouldn't be any extraordinary days. If that makes any sense.
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Seeing Beauty
Seeing Beauty
The workout today didn't go as planned. I wanted to do 12 x 400 meter repeats with about 90 seconds of jogging between each repeat. All the tracks had snow on them, so I used my GPS watch at Lake Zorinsky.
I ran pretty well, but was about five seconds slower on each 400 than I had planned. Even though the trail was plowed, there was still plenty of snow, wet spots, and slippery spots. Maybe that was why I was a little slow. My left hamstring was a little tender and my legs felt heavy. That was probably part of the problem too. The heart and lungs got a good workout nonetheless. I completed all 12 repeats with a mile warm-up and cool-down.
I was getting ready to start my second to last repeat when I noticed the beauty of my surroundings. The snow covered the evergreens surrounding the trail. It was so quiet and peaceful. I wonder how often we miss the beauty of our surroundings because we are either too busy or too familiar. Sometimes it's best to stop what we are doing and enjoy the beauty around us. And no matter where you are--beauty exists.
The workout today didn't go as planned. I wanted to do 12 x 400 meter repeats with about 90 seconds of jogging between each repeat. All the tracks had snow on them, so I used my GPS watch at Lake Zorinsky.
I ran pretty well, but was about five seconds slower on each 400 than I had planned. Even though the trail was plowed, there was still plenty of snow, wet spots, and slippery spots. Maybe that was why I was a little slow. My left hamstring was a little tender and my legs felt heavy. That was probably part of the problem too. The heart and lungs got a good workout nonetheless. I completed all 12 repeats with a mile warm-up and cool-down.
I was getting ready to start my second to last repeat when I noticed the beauty of my surroundings. The snow covered the evergreens surrounding the trail. It was so quiet and peaceful. I wonder how often we miss the beauty of our surroundings because we are either too busy or too familiar. Sometimes it's best to stop what we are doing and enjoy the beauty around us. And no matter where you are--beauty exists.
Monday, January 22, 2007
Dead Battery
Dead Battery
Kurt, Maureen, and I ran at Boys Town this morning. We had lots of snow this weekend, so the roads were slick. The wind was cold too.
They did a few miles before I got there. I got in probably about 8 or 9. The battery on my GPS watch was dead for some reason so we had to use Maureen's internal GPS which isn't as nearly as accurate as my Garmin 305. In fact, her internal GPS isn't even close at all.
Anyway, this was the first time I have felt good running since the marathon.
David is one month old today. Happy Birthday little guy!
Sunday, January 21, 2007
Rest, Day 2
Rest, Day 2
Busy from early in the morning to late in the evening. My legs are feeling great and ready to go tomorrow.
Busy from early in the morning to late in the evening. My legs are feeling great and ready to go tomorrow.
Saturday, January 20, 2007
Rest, Day 1
Rest, Day 1
I decided to take the weekend off from running. Actually my schedule decided for me. No free time this weekend.
I'll be back running on Monday.
I decided to take the weekend off from running. Actually my schedule decided for me. No free time this weekend.
I'll be back running on Monday.
Friday, January 19, 2007
I Quit
I Quit
Started running with Maureen and Christy today. The plan was to do 12 miles. Common sense prevailed and I quit after 5.88 miles.
I lifted biceps and back with John during lunch.
Highlight of the day: a seriously painful, one hour plus, deep tissue massage with Ray. Ray said I was in bad shape.
After work I went home, hopped in the jacuzzi with the jets on full blast, slapped on some extra strength, generic-brand Ben-Gay, watched the new episode of "Monk" with the family, and went to sleep.
I should be able to resume training on Monday to get ready for Boston!
Started running with Maureen and Christy today. The plan was to do 12 miles. Common sense prevailed and I quit after 5.88 miles.
I lifted biceps and back with John during lunch.
Highlight of the day: a seriously painful, one hour plus, deep tissue massage with Ray. Ray said I was in bad shape.
After work I went home, hopped in the jacuzzi with the jets on full blast, slapped on some extra strength, generic-brand Ben-Gay, watched the new episode of "Monk" with the family, and went to sleep.
I should be able to resume training on Monday to get ready for Boston!
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Not-so-ouchy-that-I-can't-run
Not-so-ouchy-that-I-can't-run
First post marathon run. 12.35 miles at 7:43 per mile. Cold, icy, and windy. I was hurting, sore, and tired. Other than that it was a great run.
Maureen run a marathon in Houston on Sunday and seemed to recover faster than me. I was out of breath most of the time and my left hamstring was tender. She managed to pull us through a 7:43 pace which is pretty impressive considering the wind and all the ice on the trail.
Make mental note to self: a fairly hard run four days after a marathon will generally not replenish one's energy.
First post marathon run. 12.35 miles at 7:43 per mile. Cold, icy, and windy. I was hurting, sore, and tired. Other than that it was a great run.
Maureen run a marathon in Houston on Sunday and seemed to recover faster than me. I was out of breath most of the time and my left hamstring was tender. She managed to pull us through a 7:43 pace which is pretty impressive considering the wind and all the ice on the trail.
Make mental note to self: a fairly hard run four days after a marathon will generally not replenish one's energy.
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
Less Ouchy
Less Ouchy
Feeling much better today. I would have probably ran if I would have had time. Another long meeting in Lincoln all day, then a few hospital visits in the afternnon, picked up Benjamin from school, finished a project I was working on for the church. The legs probably need a few more days to heal anyway.
Feeling much better today. I would have probably ran if I would have had time. Another long meeting in Lincoln all day, then a few hospital visits in the afternnon, picked up Benjamin from school, finished a project I was working on for the church. The legs probably need a few more days to heal anyway.
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Ouch, Day 2
Ouch, Day 2
I had a meeting all day in Lincoln. Thankfull I got to sit all day. People asked me why I was limping--I told them I had a rough Sunday. If they only knew...
I had a meeting all day in Lincoln. Thankfull I got to sit all day. People asked me why I was limping--I told them I had a rough Sunday. If they only knew...
Monday, January 15, 2007
Ouch
Ouch
It's great to be back home. I shoveled my driveway, played with the kids, and hobbled around today. My legs are shot! I guess 26.2 miles will do that to a person.
It's great to be back home. I shoveled my driveway, played with the kids, and hobbled around today. My legs are shot! I guess 26.2 miles will do that to a person.
Sunday, January 14, 2007
Rock n Roll Marathon
Rock n Roll Marathon
Brad and I got the Omaha airport around 7:00 p.m. on Friday evening. I saw a friend, Brandie and her mom and two daughters waiting for a flight to Chicago. I hung out with them while we waited for our flight to Phoenix. We arrived in Phoenix a little before midnight on Friday. We realized on Friday that we hadn’t rented a car. Not a good idea. We waited in line for about forty-five minutes to find out the cheapest vehicle they had was a Ford Mustang convertible. We made it to Brad's brother’s house around 1:00 a.m. At this point I had been up for twenty-two hours because I had a ton of work to do before I left. Make a mental note to self: sleep in the days preceding a marathon is a good thing.
Saturday was much better. I slept in until 10:30. That may be a record since Benjamin was born in 2001. We took the Mustang downtown, picked-up our packets, and hung-out at the expo for a while. I bought gift for Benjamin and David. Then we had a huge lunch at the Hard Rock Café. I had a pulled pork sandwich, fries, onion rings, baked beans, coleslaw, and three Cokes. We journeyed our way out to Sun City West. I made an executive decision that Amber and I are going to retire there in about thirty years. We hooked up with Gail and Dean, some friends from Omaha who live in Arizona in the winter. Brad and I drove their super-charged, street-legal, golf cart around the neighborhood. Since Brad is too young to drive the rental car, I generally let him have the honors. Top speed of the golf cart: 28 miles per hour. Roughly 24 miles per hour faster than Brad's projected pace for the marathon the next day. Gail was kind enough to make us dinner. The menu: salad, spaghetti, meat sauce, and bread. I had three chocolate chip cookies, two peanut butter cookies, and three scoops of vanilla ice cream smothered in chocolate sauce for dessert. I washed it all down with two or three glasses of cranberry-grape juice. I wasn't going to run out of fuel tomorrow.
I met Paul at the start. He came up to me before the race and asked if there was a three hour pacer. I told him they generally don't start until 3:10 or 3:15, but that I was going to do the first seven or eight miles at a three hour pace. We decided to run together.
I turned around right before the race and saw a mass of humanity behind me. 10,000 marathon runners and another 25,000 half-marathoners. Amazing. Every one of these people have a special story. Most of them, with the exception of Brad, had trained for this day.
They sang the National Anthem, the gun shot, the balloons were let go of, and we were off and running.
Although I got to start near the front, hundreds of people were passing us. I told Paul just to chill out. The marathon is 26.2 miles and the most common mistake is starting off too fast. We hit our first mile right at seven minutes. Lesson: the race in the marathon and in life doesn't go to the swift but to those who keep running.
The first mile was fan, easy, and effortless. We picked up the pace in miles 2 and 3 -- 6:47 for each mile. Lots of fans were cheering us on. People from a church with big yellow signs were shouting at us that we were going to hell for running on a Sunday. Paul said: "I hope we don't have to listen to this $#!% the whole way."
We chatted a bit. He is a rowing coach at Princeton University. I told him I was a pastor, but that my church was a bit more graceful than the people with the big, yellow signs.
By now we were passing most of the people who passed us in the early miles. Mile 4 was 6:46 and mile 5 was 6:43. I felt great.
I have a few goals for running. The first is to treat my body as God's Temple. I neglected that for years. I have been running for about nine months and feel so much better than when I wasn't exercising. The second goal is to glorify God. I want to inspire people and bring them closer to God.
I had an additional goal for this race: to break three hours. I ran 3:13 in Sioux City this fall and knew that I could do much better.
Paul and I continued to chat and enjoy the race. I figured the longer I could keep thinking about how far I had gone and how far I had to go...all the better. Mile 6 was another 6:41. Each mile was getting faster and I was now on pace to break three hours.
At mile 7 Paul told me we was going to slow down a bit. We shook hands and I was off. Another lesson: marathons and lives are both best when done in the company of others.
I remember some great bands and some great fans around mile 7. They were launching some hot air balloons too. I had another 6:41 for mile 7. I had the the same split for three miles and it felt comfortable. A average pace of 6:52 is needed to break three hours.
I was passing lots of runners at this point in the race. I was wondering if I should slow down to: but me being the quintessential optimist I kept moving along. I had a 6:33 for mile 8 and a 6:31 for mile 9. I was getting faster every mile. Another lesson: optimism is good, common sense is even better. Keep reading if you don't believe me.
This course is flat and fast. Mile 10 was an exception. We ran into a pretty stiff headwind. A fast woman asked me if she could run with me. What this meant was "Could I block the wind for her?" She wasn't too chatty. We ran 6:43 for mile 10 and 6:39 for mile 11.
I saw a pretty big pack of runners about one hundred yards in front of me at about mile 12. I picked up the pace to hook up with them. I ran 6:29 during that mile and lost the woman who was drafting off me.
Here was the plan: I was going to hang out with this pack for five to seven miles and then kick in the last six. I was still feeling awesome and was way below three hour pace. Mile 13 was 6:30 and I hit the halfway mark at 1:27:38 -- a 2:55:16 pace.
I stuck with the plan for a few miles. Mile 14 was 6:27 and mile 15 was 6:28. The pack fell apart at this point. I took off again and this guy Jimmy came with me. I was thinking 2:54 or 2:55 was a good possibility at this point. Jimmy and I ran 16 and 17 together: 6:40 and 6:51. In two miles my perspective on this marathon and on life totally changed. It was no longer fun and effortless; it was hard and the end was no where in sight. I thighs were burning. My left hip was shot. And the really bad news--I still had eight miles to go.
The night before I talked to Maureen on the phone. She was running a marathon in Houston. She told me when I start hurting to pick-up the pace instead of slowing down. At this point I would have pretty much tried anything. I picked it up a bit, running a 6:46 for miles 18 and 19.
By this time I was trying to think of anything to occupy my mind. I tried the optimist thing for a while. "I am still running my miles below sub three hour pace." That worked for about a minute. I then started praying for The Water's Edge worship experience. They were worshipping. I was running. That one lasted about ten minutes. Mile 20 was 6:51. My total time was 2:13:49 which is a 2:55 pace.
I started to really focus at mile 21. I was hopefully to maintain the pace from the previous 20 miles. I was breathing better and I only had six miles to go. I was running by myself at this point. The crowd was thin in places too. I knew I was in the top 100. The nearest runner was about 50 yards in front of me and 100 yards behind me. I did 6:49 for mile 21 and had another good mile at 22: 6:54. Lesson: when struggles come in life, it is best not to be alone.
By mile 23, I was no longer racing. I was just trying to finish. I gave it my best shot. I slowed down to 7:17 during mile 23. Everything hurt, I was getting cold, and I felt like I had to throw up.
There was a huge crowd and lots of bands at mile 24. I managed to break 7:00 one last time with a 6:57. Lesson: support and encouragement is priceless!
Miles 25 and 26 were brutal. I still managed a 7:17 and a 7:14, but it took everything I had. I thought about David, the baby, and Benjamin, the boy. All the sacrifices that Amber makes so I can run. The people at the church who are the greatest friends. I thought about the pain Jesus went through. The pain I was going through was a mere glimpse of what he went through.
Thousands of people lined the streets of Arizona State University. The last 385 yards were fun. I hadn't had fun for over an hour. The last two tenths of a mile took 1:36. I beat 3:00 when I crossed the finish line in 2:57:57 -- my best time by 16 minutes. Gail and Dean and their granddaughter were there. I held on for a spot in the top 100.
I hooked up with Paul after the race. He did great job running it in 3 hours. He qualified and is looking forward to Boston.
After eating 8 chocolate chip cookies and a bag of Chili Cheese Corn Chips, I went to the UPS truck and got my bag. Called Amber. She predicted a 2:57. Had a text message from Maureen -- she ran 3:03 -- a great time. Called her and congratulated her. Got lots of calls from friends. Worship went well. One of the biggest crowds ever. I thought to myself: Maybe I should take more Sundays off if more people are going to show up!
In a heroic effort, Brad, who hadn't trained for the last month finished in 4:02.
Dean bought me lunch #1 -- a double cheeseburger, fries, and a Coke while we waited for Brad. Dean and Gail brought us lunch #2 -- I had a 12 inch Pastrami sandwich from Subway, with chips and cookies and more Coke.
Brad and I made it to the airport by 7:00 p.m. and were in Omaha by midnight. I had a great time with him.
Really sore, but a great race. I trained hard for the race and did my best during the race. I can't wait for Boston. Only three months away!
Brad and I got the Omaha airport around 7:00 p.m. on Friday evening. I saw a friend, Brandie and her mom and two daughters waiting for a flight to Chicago. I hung out with them while we waited for our flight to Phoenix. We arrived in Phoenix a little before midnight on Friday. We realized on Friday that we hadn’t rented a car. Not a good idea. We waited in line for about forty-five minutes to find out the cheapest vehicle they had was a Ford Mustang convertible. We made it to Brad's brother’s house around 1:00 a.m. At this point I had been up for twenty-two hours because I had a ton of work to do before I left. Make a mental note to self: sleep in the days preceding a marathon is a good thing.
Saturday was much better. I slept in until 10:30. That may be a record since Benjamin was born in 2001. We took the Mustang downtown, picked-up our packets, and hung-out at the expo for a while. I bought gift for Benjamin and David. Then we had a huge lunch at the Hard Rock Café. I had a pulled pork sandwich, fries, onion rings, baked beans, coleslaw, and three Cokes. We journeyed our way out to Sun City West. I made an executive decision that Amber and I are going to retire there in about thirty years. We hooked up with Gail and Dean, some friends from Omaha who live in Arizona in the winter. Brad and I drove their super-charged, street-legal, golf cart around the neighborhood. Since Brad is too young to drive the rental car, I generally let him have the honors. Top speed of the golf cart: 28 miles per hour. Roughly 24 miles per hour faster than Brad's projected pace for the marathon the next day. Gail was kind enough to make us dinner. The menu: salad, spaghetti, meat sauce, and bread. I had three chocolate chip cookies, two peanut butter cookies, and three scoops of vanilla ice cream smothered in chocolate sauce for dessert. I washed it all down with two or three glasses of cranberry-grape juice. I wasn't going to run out of fuel tomorrow.
I met Paul at the start. He came up to me before the race and asked if there was a three hour pacer. I told him they generally don't start until 3:10 or 3:15, but that I was going to do the first seven or eight miles at a three hour pace. We decided to run together.
I turned around right before the race and saw a mass of humanity behind me. 10,000 marathon runners and another 25,000 half-marathoners. Amazing. Every one of these people have a special story. Most of them, with the exception of Brad, had trained for this day.
They sang the National Anthem, the gun shot, the balloons were let go of, and we were off and running.
Although I got to start near the front, hundreds of people were passing us. I told Paul just to chill out. The marathon is 26.2 miles and the most common mistake is starting off too fast. We hit our first mile right at seven minutes. Lesson: the race in the marathon and in life doesn't go to the swift but to those who keep running.
The first mile was fan, easy, and effortless. We picked up the pace in miles 2 and 3 -- 6:47 for each mile. Lots of fans were cheering us on. People from a church with big yellow signs were shouting at us that we were going to hell for running on a Sunday. Paul said: "I hope we don't have to listen to this $#!% the whole way."
We chatted a bit. He is a rowing coach at Princeton University. I told him I was a pastor, but that my church was a bit more graceful than the people with the big, yellow signs.
By now we were passing most of the people who passed us in the early miles. Mile 4 was 6:46 and mile 5 was 6:43. I felt great.
I have a few goals for running. The first is to treat my body as God's Temple. I neglected that for years. I have been running for about nine months and feel so much better than when I wasn't exercising. The second goal is to glorify God. I want to inspire people and bring them closer to God.
I had an additional goal for this race: to break three hours. I ran 3:13 in Sioux City this fall and knew that I could do much better.
Paul and I continued to chat and enjoy the race. I figured the longer I could keep thinking about how far I had gone and how far I had to go...all the better. Mile 6 was another 6:41. Each mile was getting faster and I was now on pace to break three hours.
At mile 7 Paul told me we was going to slow down a bit. We shook hands and I was off. Another lesson: marathons and lives are both best when done in the company of others.
I remember some great bands and some great fans around mile 7. They were launching some hot air balloons too. I had another 6:41 for mile 7. I had the the same split for three miles and it felt comfortable. A average pace of 6:52 is needed to break three hours.
I was passing lots of runners at this point in the race. I was wondering if I should slow down to: but me being the quintessential optimist I kept moving along. I had a 6:33 for mile 8 and a 6:31 for mile 9. I was getting faster every mile. Another lesson: optimism is good, common sense is even better. Keep reading if you don't believe me.
This course is flat and fast. Mile 10 was an exception. We ran into a pretty stiff headwind. A fast woman asked me if she could run with me. What this meant was "Could I block the wind for her?" She wasn't too chatty. We ran 6:43 for mile 10 and 6:39 for mile 11.
I saw a pretty big pack of runners about one hundred yards in front of me at about mile 12. I picked up the pace to hook up with them. I ran 6:29 during that mile and lost the woman who was drafting off me.
Here was the plan: I was going to hang out with this pack for five to seven miles and then kick in the last six. I was still feeling awesome and was way below three hour pace. Mile 13 was 6:30 and I hit the halfway mark at 1:27:38 -- a 2:55:16 pace.
I stuck with the plan for a few miles. Mile 14 was 6:27 and mile 15 was 6:28. The pack fell apart at this point. I took off again and this guy Jimmy came with me. I was thinking 2:54 or 2:55 was a good possibility at this point. Jimmy and I ran 16 and 17 together: 6:40 and 6:51. In two miles my perspective on this marathon and on life totally changed. It was no longer fun and effortless; it was hard and the end was no where in sight. I thighs were burning. My left hip was shot. And the really bad news--I still had eight miles to go.
The night before I talked to Maureen on the phone. She was running a marathon in Houston. She told me when I start hurting to pick-up the pace instead of slowing down. At this point I would have pretty much tried anything. I picked it up a bit, running a 6:46 for miles 18 and 19.
By this time I was trying to think of anything to occupy my mind. I tried the optimist thing for a while. "I am still running my miles below sub three hour pace." That worked for about a minute. I then started praying for The Water's Edge worship experience. They were worshipping. I was running. That one lasted about ten minutes. Mile 20 was 6:51. My total time was 2:13:49 which is a 2:55 pace.
I started to really focus at mile 21. I was hopefully to maintain the pace from the previous 20 miles. I was breathing better and I only had six miles to go. I was running by myself at this point. The crowd was thin in places too. I knew I was in the top 100. The nearest runner was about 50 yards in front of me and 100 yards behind me. I did 6:49 for mile 21 and had another good mile at 22: 6:54. Lesson: when struggles come in life, it is best not to be alone.
By mile 23, I was no longer racing. I was just trying to finish. I gave it my best shot. I slowed down to 7:17 during mile 23. Everything hurt, I was getting cold, and I felt like I had to throw up.
There was a huge crowd and lots of bands at mile 24. I managed to break 7:00 one last time with a 6:57. Lesson: support and encouragement is priceless!
Miles 25 and 26 were brutal. I still managed a 7:17 and a 7:14, but it took everything I had. I thought about David, the baby, and Benjamin, the boy. All the sacrifices that Amber makes so I can run. The people at the church who are the greatest friends. I thought about the pain Jesus went through. The pain I was going through was a mere glimpse of what he went through.
Thousands of people lined the streets of Arizona State University. The last 385 yards were fun. I hadn't had fun for over an hour. The last two tenths of a mile took 1:36. I beat 3:00 when I crossed the finish line in 2:57:57 -- my best time by 16 minutes. Gail and Dean and their granddaughter were there. I held on for a spot in the top 100.
I hooked up with Paul after the race. He did great job running it in 3 hours. He qualified and is looking forward to Boston.
After eating 8 chocolate chip cookies and a bag of Chili Cheese Corn Chips, I went to the UPS truck and got my bag. Called Amber. She predicted a 2:57. Had a text message from Maureen -- she ran 3:03 -- a great time. Called her and congratulated her. Got lots of calls from friends. Worship went well. One of the biggest crowds ever. I thought to myself: Maybe I should take more Sundays off if more people are going to show up!
In a heroic effort, Brad, who hadn't trained for the last month finished in 4:02.
Dean bought me lunch #1 -- a double cheeseburger, fries, and a Coke while we waited for Brad. Dean and Gail brought us lunch #2 -- I had a 12 inch Pastrami sandwich from Subway, with chips and cookies and more Coke.
Brad and I made it to the airport by 7:00 p.m. and were in Omaha by midnight. I had a great time with him.
Really sore, but a great race. I trained hard for the race and did my best during the race. I can't wait for Boston. Only three months away!
Saturday, January 13, 2007
In Phoenix
In Phoenix
Brad and I had a great time in Phoenix today. I'm excited about the race tomorrow!
Brad and I had a great time in Phoenix today. I'm excited about the race tomorrow!
Friday, January 12, 2007
Thursday, January 11, 2007
Last Run
Last Run
Today was the last run before the Rock N Roll Marathon on Sunday. 4.46 easy miles at 8:23 per mile around the east side of Lake Zorinsky. I kept my heart rate below 140 beats per minute. Ran with Kurt, Pam, and Joanie.
Today was the last run before the Rock N Roll Marathon on Sunday. 4.46 easy miles at 8:23 per mile around the east side of Lake Zorinsky. I kept my heart rate below 140 beats per minute. Ran with Kurt, Pam, and Joanie.
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
Excitement
Excitement
The days before a marathon are always exciting. The urge is to run faster and further, but the body needs rest more than it needs a little additional fitness. Maureen and I did 7.44 miles around Lake Zorinsky at 7:39 per mile.
The days before a marathon are always exciting. The urge is to run faster and further, but the body needs rest more than it needs a little additional fitness. Maureen and I did 7.44 miles around Lake Zorinsky at 7:39 per mile.
Tuesday, January 9, 2007
Rest
Rest
Resting up for the race Sunday. No running--just a lot of work, changing diapers, doing laundry, etc...
Resting up for the race Sunday. No running--just a lot of work, changing diapers, doing laundry, etc...
Monday, January 8, 2007
Normal
Normal
Less mileage this week, so Maureen and I did 7.43 miles--one trip around Lake Zorinsky. Pretty easy pace: around 7:30 per mile or so. Absolutely beautiful morning out. Couldn't have been much better.
I generally like exciting or eventful, but today was pretty normal. We saw the people we usually see. The run today was relaxing, simple, and easy. Thank God for normal days.
Less mileage this week, so Maureen and I did 7.43 miles--one trip around Lake Zorinsky. Pretty easy pace: around 7:30 per mile or so. Absolutely beautiful morning out. Couldn't have been much better.
I generally like exciting or eventful, but today was pretty normal. We saw the people we usually see. The run today was relaxing, simple, and easy. Thank God for normal days.
Sunday, January 7, 2007
The Moon Song
The Moon Song
I generally don't run on Sundays and today was one of those days. We had a great worship experience this morning. Our worship leader, AJ, and I wrote a song recently. He sang it today for the first time. He did an awesome job. Here are the lyrics...
(Verse 1)
I looked at the sky one night
And saw a reflection of myself
Little stars shining their dim light
And I cried out for help
I looked up at the sky that night
And You showed me the moon
The brightest in all the sky
And you answered my cry...And my cry was to
(Chorus)
Make me a moon
Not shining on my own
But reflecting the light
That shines from Your Son
When people see me
They'll see that You're beautiful
You'll light up the night
When hope that shines from Your Son
(Verse 2)
I walk down this road of life
Sometimes I get lost along the way
Feeling all this pain and strife
And all I can do is pray
I listen for Your voice again
And You showed me the moon
Brighter than all the stars
And you answered my prayer...my prayer was to
(Repeat Chorus)
I generally don't run on Sundays and today was one of those days. We had a great worship experience this morning. Our worship leader, AJ, and I wrote a song recently. He sang it today for the first time. He did an awesome job. Here are the lyrics...
(Verse 1)
I looked at the sky one night
And saw a reflection of myself
Little stars shining their dim light
And I cried out for help
I looked up at the sky that night
And You showed me the moon
The brightest in all the sky
And you answered my cry...And my cry was to
(Chorus)
Make me a moon
Not shining on my own
But reflecting the light
That shines from Your Son
When people see me
They'll see that You're beautiful
You'll light up the night
When hope that shines from Your Son
(Verse 2)
I walk down this road of life
Sometimes I get lost along the way
Feeling all this pain and strife
And all I can do is pray
I listen for Your voice again
And You showed me the moon
Brighter than all the stars
And you answered my prayer...my prayer was to
(Repeat Chorus)
Saturday, January 6, 2007
Taper
Taper
The Rock n' Roll Marathon is eight days away. All the hard training is done. The tapering has begun. This morning and the next week will all be slower and shorter runs with a few days off to make sure I am rested.
Maureen and I ran 7.97 miles this morning in about an hour. One of her dogs ran with us. We had a good conversation about how the woman on the show 1 vs. 100 wasn't the sharpest person in the world and how the people in the mob aren't too bright either.
The Rock n' Roll Marathon is eight days away. All the hard training is done. The tapering has begun. This morning and the next week will all be slower and shorter runs with a few days off to make sure I am rested.
Maureen and I ran 7.97 miles this morning in about an hour. One of her dogs ran with us. We had a good conversation about how the woman on the show 1 vs. 100 wasn't the sharpest person in the world and how the people in the mob aren't too bright either.
Friday, January 5, 2007
Tempo
Tempo
I did my last hard workout until the Rock n' Roll Marathon in Phoenix next Sunday. Maureen and I did 6 mile tempo run with a 2 mile warm-up and a 3 mile cool-down. The tempo run went well. We did 6.09 miles in 40:27 for a 6:38 pace. It felt pretty easy. My heart rate averaged 156 and topped out at 163.
I am ready to go!
I did my last hard workout until the Rock n' Roll Marathon in Phoenix next Sunday. Maureen and I did 6 mile tempo run with a 2 mile warm-up and a 3 mile cool-down. The tempo run went well. We did 6.09 miles in 40:27 for a 6:38 pace. It felt pretty easy. My heart rate averaged 156 and topped out at 163.
I am ready to go!
Thursday, January 4, 2007
Busy
Busy
No running today. Only work. On the bright side of things, my body needed a day off to rest.
No running today. Only work. On the bright side of things, my body needed a day off to rest.
Wednesday, January 3, 2007
Resistance
Resistance
Maureen and I ran about thirteen miles out by her place. It is a hilly course. The first ten miles weren't bad. The last three were brutal. They were directly into a 20 mph wind from the south. Not much chatter was going on the last three miles. At one time we were running down a hill and I said to her, "You know it's really windy when it's hard running downhill."
We all face resistance in life. Today I learned that the best thing to do is to focus and grind it out. It's helpful when others are with you on the journey as well.
Maureen and I ran about thirteen miles out by her place. It is a hilly course. The first ten miles weren't bad. The last three were brutal. They were directly into a 20 mph wind from the south. Not much chatter was going on the last three miles. At one time we were running down a hill and I said to her, "You know it's really windy when it's hard running downhill."
We all face resistance in life. Today I learned that the best thing to do is to focus and grind it out. It's helpful when others are with you on the journey as well.
Tuesday, January 2, 2007
Amazing
Amazing
Maureen and I ran through Boys Town and a few of the surrounding neighborhoods. Still tired from the norovirus and dehydration, but feeling better. 12.02 miles at sub 8 minute miles which was a good pace considering how icy it was. Neither of us fell which is pretty good considering that we are both running marathons in 12 days.
OK...here's the deal. It was amazing. Last night I watched the best football game I have ever seen. Boise State beat Oklahoma and it was a joy to watch. Five touchdowns in the last two minutes of regulation and the first minute of overtime. Then Boise State goes for two points and makes it for the win. It was David vs. Goliath II and David won the rematch.
So I was thinking that running is not a terribly exciting spectator sport. Even the Rock n' Roll Marathon I'll be running next week in Pheonix won't get the people of the city excited like a football game did last night in the same city.
Running is exciting for the participants. Crossing the finish line of a marathon is an amazing thing. Beating your personal best time or seeing improvement gives a sense of accomplishment.
And so it is with life. We are simultaneously spectators and participants. It is fun and interesting to watch. It is exciting and rewarding to participate. Life is amazing and God blesses us that we get to watch and play.
Maureen and I ran through Boys Town and a few of the surrounding neighborhoods. Still tired from the norovirus and dehydration, but feeling better. 12.02 miles at sub 8 minute miles which was a good pace considering how icy it was. Neither of us fell which is pretty good considering that we are both running marathons in 12 days.
OK...here's the deal. It was amazing. Last night I watched the best football game I have ever seen. Boise State beat Oklahoma and it was a joy to watch. Five touchdowns in the last two minutes of regulation and the first minute of overtime. Then Boise State goes for two points and makes it for the win. It was David vs. Goliath II and David won the rematch.
So I was thinking that running is not a terribly exciting spectator sport. Even the Rock n' Roll Marathon I'll be running next week in Pheonix won't get the people of the city excited like a football game did last night in the same city.
Running is exciting for the participants. Crossing the finish line of a marathon is an amazing thing. Beating your personal best time or seeing improvement gives a sense of accomplishment.
And so it is with life. We are simultaneously spectators and participants. It is fun and interesting to watch. It is exciting and rewarding to participate. Life is amazing and God blesses us that we get to watch and play.
Monday, January 1, 2007
New Year
New Year
I think this day should be more appropriately titled: Norovirus, Day 4. But it is a New Year and I was feeling a little better. Not a good idea.
I met Maureen at her house and we ran the hilly course. Other than being cold, windy, icy, and me feeling like I was totally dehydrated--it was a great run.
12.46 miles at about eight minutes per mile and over 2,100 feet of climbing hills.
The good part about this run is that the rest of the year can only get better.
Happy New Year everybody!
I think this day should be more appropriately titled: Norovirus, Day 4. But it is a New Year and I was feeling a little better. Not a good idea.
I met Maureen at her house and we ran the hilly course. Other than being cold, windy, icy, and me feeling like I was totally dehydrated--it was a great run.
12.46 miles at about eight minutes per mile and over 2,100 feet of climbing hills.
The good part about this run is that the rest of the year can only get better.
Happy New Year everybody!
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